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Holiday Magic Squares: Divine Festive Bars

Holiday Magic Squares

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Create delicious Holiday Magic Squares, a festive bar cookie recipe perfect for Christmas and holiday gatherings. These easy, no-bake magic squares feature a graham cracker crust layered with coconut, peanuts, white chocolate chips, and festive M&Ms, all bound together with sweetened condensed milk. A sweet slice of memory, this recipe is simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup salted peanuts
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup holiday M&Ms, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides, or grease the pan well.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until evenly coated.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
  4. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the crust.
  5. Scatter the salted peanuts over the coconut.
  6. Distribute the white chocolate chips over the peanuts.
  7. Top with most of the holiday M&Ms, reserving a few for garnish.
  8. Slowly and evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over all the layers, ensuring it covers the surface. Do not stir. Tilt the pan to help spread the milk.
  9. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  10. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle reserved M&Ms over the top, gently pressing them in.
  11. Let the pan cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack.
  12. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
  13. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block of magic squares out of the pan. Slice into squares using a sharp knife.

Notes

  • For easier cleanup and removal, lining the pan with parchment paper is highly recommended.
  • Ensure the magic squares are completely chilled before slicing for clean cuts.
  • These bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
  • Feel free to substitute with different nuts or chocolate chips based on your preference.

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